Begin your journey with a pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Leave the bustling city behind and enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive through the tranquil countryside of northern Vietnam. Upon arrival, make your first stop at the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, nestled at the foot of the mountain. Spend about 30 minutes walking through peaceful courtyards, admiring the architecture, and learning about Zen Buddhism’s unique influence on Vietnamese spiritual life.

Afterward, take a short transfer to the base station of Yen Tu Mountain. Check in, store any unnecessary belongings, and prepare for the ascent. The first cable car ride is a breathtaking experience, lifting you above a dense canopy of ancient forest. As you glide upward, admire the views of mountains and pagodas tucked between clouds and treetops.

When the cable car touches down, take a short walk to the Hoa Yen Pagoda, perched at 534 meters above sea level. Once the residence of King Tran Nhan Tong during his years as a monk, this temple offers both historical significance and natural beauty, with stone steps shaded by old pine trees and panoramic views of the valleys below.

Continuing the journey, walk a gentle path to visit Mot Mai Pagoda (One-Roof Pagoda), a humble shrine built into a rock face, offering a quiet and spiritual retreat. Then, head to the second cable car station, where a final ride takes you even closer to the summit. As you arrive near the peak, a short hike leads to the statue of An Ky Sinh, a mythical figure revered for achieving enlightenment on this very mountain. Surrounded by mist and mountain air, this spot is both a cultural monument and a stunning viewpoint.

The final stretch of the journey is a walk along a stone path to reach the legendary Dong Pagoda, a small temple entirely made of bronze and located at 1,068 meters above sea level. Set against the sky, this sacred pagoda is often the highlight of the tour, offering visitors a place to light incense, reflect, and enjoy sweeping views across the northern landscape. On clear days, you may even catch glimpses of the distant Halong Bay.

After spending time at the summit, descend using the same cable car route, returning to the base where your driver awaits. On the way back to Hanoi, stop in Hai Duong Province, a region known for its traditional sweets and local specialties. Browse for souvenirs such as green bean cakes, dried lychees, or herbal teas — perfect for taking a taste of Vietnam home with you.